Malacañang on Tuesday defended the appointment of Zofia Canlas as commissioner of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), emphasizing her extensive experience within the agency while dismissing social media backlash over her alleged lavish lifestyle.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro underscored that Canlas served as chief of staff to the PCUP chairman prior to her appointment, equipping her with hands-on experience and institutional knowledge required to lead the commission.
Addressing public criticism stemming from Canlas’ social media posts featuring luxury travel, Castro stated that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. prioritizes a candidate’s capacity for public service over their socioeconomic background.
“Ang Pangulo naman po, ito ang laging binabanggit at sinasabi: Anuman ang estado mo sa buhay, mayaman ka, mahirap ka, kung ikaw ay may kakayanan na magtrabaho, magsilbi para sa bayan, iyan po ang numero uno,” Castro said during a media briefing. (Whatever your status in life—whether rich or poor—if you are capable of working and serving the country, that is the President’s number one consideration.)
Castro urged the public to withhold judgment and evaluate Canlas based on her performance in addressing urban poor affairs rather than her online presence.
“Let us first see whether she makes mistakes, and then we can criticize. For now, let us give her a chance,” Castro added, appealing for fairness as the new commissioner steps into her role.
The PCUP is tasked with formulating policy recommendations and implementing social development programs to protect the rights and welfare of urban poor communities across the country.